Reporters at WTVD, an ABC-affiliated station in Durham, N.C., had several
samples of makeup products marketed and sold to children and young teens
tested for harmful ingredients not listed on product labeling. Sean Fitzgerald,
the Director of Research and Analytical Services at the lab, stated that
the results for the "Just Shine Shimmer Powder" were “alarming.”
Besides heavy metals, barium, chromium, lead, and selenium, a significant
level of asbestos was found!
Talc is a widely used mineral with a variety of applications. The soft
powder absorbs moisture, prevents friction, is highly resistant to heat
and electricity, and is used as a filler material in everything from food
and pharmaceuticals, to cosmetics, paint and baby powder. Talc is a mineral
that, like asbestos, is mined from the earth. The problem lies in that
many places where talc is found, asbestos resides right alongside it.
Manufacturers of talc products have been aware of the hazards of asbestos-contamination
for many decades. Their disregard for the hazard has been brought to light
in recent verdicts, including the 2015 verdict in favor of our client,
Judith Winkel, against Colgate Palmolive.
The finding of asbestos in “Just Shine Shimmer Powder” currently
on the shelves of stores catering to young girls and teens is a stark
reminder that this hazard is real, and continues to exist.
For more information about testing of cosmetics, foods, and household products
sold today, visit
ewg.org.